BIRN’s recent monthly digital violations review highlights Turkey and Croatia grappling with digital censorship and growing government control. Throughout the Balkans, journalists confront escalating online challenges. In Turkey, online censorship, surveillance, and arrests negatively impact independent journalism. Croatia’s proposed Media Law sparks concerns of government control, jeopardizing investigative reporting and source protection. In July, Turkey and North Macedonia faced content removal orders and legal battles, further threatening press freedom. Albania, Bosnia, Montenegro, Romania, and Serbia witnessed increased verbal attacks, negative online campaigns, and derogatory comments targeting journalists. Kosovo and Bosnia witnessed a surge in digital misinformation through altered images and false news. Digital threats persist across the region, underscoring the ongoing struggle for media freedom and information integrity. Read more here.
Source: Balkan Insight
